Panama struck by magnitude 7.7 earthquake, U.S. Geological Survey says

A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck near Panama’s southern tip on Friday morning, shaking buildings more than 100 miles away in the capital and prompting evacuations, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said tsunami waves between about 3 and 9 feet were possible along Panama’s coast.

The quake was centered about 7 miles southwest of the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba, the USGS said. It struck at a depth of 7 miles.

Tremors were felt in Panama City, where buildings shook and people evacuated into the streets. Visibly shaken residents gathered outside as they waited for news of the quake’s impact.

“We felt it very strongly. It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we’re OK, though we’re very scared,” Rosendo Domínguez, 60, who is from Herrera province, where the earthquake struck, told The Associated Press by phone. “Everyone is outside, scared.”

Local media reported that the quake was also felt in parts of neighboring Colombia. Panama’s Civil Protection said it was investigating possible damages in regions near where the earthquake took place.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.